For some people Glastonbury is the height of the festival season; however this year James, Daisy and I enjoyed watching the highlights on BBC iPlayer from the comfort of our living room. Florence Welch, as in Florence + the Machine fame, looked what can only be described as “awesome” in her very 70’s super sparkly flared suit.
As I write, Wireless festival is in action. Living near to Finsbury Park means that when the wind blows in our direction I can hear the acts playing. I wandered through the park earlier today, and saw swathes of girls scantily clad in a uniform of high-waisted hot pants, crop tops, flowers in their hair and the essential fringed bag casually thrown over one shoulder.
But what if your festival taste is more End of the Road than Wireless, and you’d rather hear Sufjan Stevens play than Drake? What if hot pants are a no go and, whilst Florence looked amazing, a sparkly suit is just impractical, what do you wear to a festival?
Designers Isabel Marant and Etro embraced a 70’s bohemian aesthetic for their SS ranges, and as a result there are some great high street knock offs. So taking this as a starting point, I opted for an M&S chambray dress, which was a real find. I love the Navajo embroidered motifs, gathered waist line and little tassels which all work together to give that boho feel. The fabric is a lightweight chambray, so good for this lovely summer we’re having.
Jewellery always completes a look, and currently I am besotted with Ways of Change‘s new range. Handmade by artisan refugees living on the Thai/Burmese border, each piece is unique. Anyone who knows me well will know that I am never without a finger tip ring; so the coil ring (pictured above) is a without a doubt a favourite. Traditional techniques have been used to create relevant pieces. I like the fact that each piece is textured and you can see where the brass has been hammered into shape, particularly on the Rom Bo Bracelet (pictured below). Ways of Change is an ethically sourced fashion brand, and a proportion of profits are used to support community projects, that focus on empowerment and sustainable living. All materials are, where possible, upcycled, organic and locally sourced, so as you can see this is a brand that really lives up to its name. I recently chatted with the founders Lauren and Cara, to read the interview please click here.
Whether you opt for hot pants and a crop top, or take a more cautious approach like me, I hope you enjoy this festival season.
